This course looks at the complicated history of abolition and emancipation. It unpacks the origins of slavery, the role the British played in the transatlantic slave trade, early critiques of slavery from a religious group known as the Quakers, and the role women played in supporting the abolitionist movement. Students will then discuss the abolition of the slave trade and question whether or not it was a precursor to emancipation. The remainder of the course will look at the amelioration (or improvement) of slavery, slave resistance and agency, the abolition of slavery, and the apprenticeship period. Participation and written assignments will make up the evaluation of the course.
